Creamy pesto pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich, nutty flavors of classic basil pesto with luscious, creamy sauce. The result is a velvety, herb-infused pasta that¡¯s both comforting and vibrant. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal but fancy enough to impress guests at a dinner party. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that¡¯s packed with flavor. Serve it on its own, or pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
Ingredients:
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? 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
? 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
? 1 cup heavy cream
? 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
? 1 tablespoon olive oil
? 2 garlic cloves, minced
? Salt and pepper, to taste
? Fresh basil, for garnish
? Optional: Grilled chicken or shrimp, for serving
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Instructions:
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1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta
water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Saut¨¦ the garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saut¨¦ for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful
not to burn it.
3. Make the creamy pesto sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently,
until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy pesto sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, ensuring the sauce clings
to every piece. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
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This creamy pesto pasta is rich, indulgent, and packed with the fresh, vibrant flavors of basil, making it the perfect dish for pesto lovers!
